The RNLI today released statistics for last year showing that lifeboats across the island of Ireland launched 967 times at its 46 lifeboat stations, bringing 912 people to safety, 17 of whom were lives saved. 280 of those launches were carried out in the hours of darkness.
“These figures show the high demand on lifeboat crews,” the RNLI said when also making its annual call for support for its ‘Mayday Mile’ fundraising event, where participants are asked to “cover a mile a day for the month of May, with every cent raised helping the lifesavers have everything in equipment they need to keep people safe.
Aonghus Ó hIarnáin, Aran Islands RNLI Coxswain said: ‘Each year we see how quickly things can change on the water. Our crews are always ready to respond, but we can only do what we do thanks to the public’s generosity. This May, we’re asking people to step up and support us through the Mayday Mile so we can keep saving lives when it matters most. The new figures show just how demanding last year was. Every launch represents someone in urgent need — and our volunteers drop everything to help. With summer approaching, Mayday is our chance to make sure we have the equipment and training needed for whatever comes next.’
“Our lifesaving service remains as vital as ever,” according to Linda-Gene Byrne, RNLI Water Safety Lead. “Whether it’s paddleboarders caught by offshore winds, walkers stranded by the tide or boaters in difficulty, our crews are answering calls every day of the year. Taking part in the Mayday Mile is a simple way for people to support our volunteers. Every euro raised helps ensure our crews can launch at a moment’s notice — and be there for families when they need us most.’
Sign up for the Mayday Mile at: RNLI.org/supportMayday
